New Mexico’s landscape never ceases to amaze. For example, did you know that we have more than 500 natural arches, windows, and natural bridges in the state? Most (about 300) are up north, near Farmington, but these nature-carved landforms can be found as far south as Whites City. Plus, to reach many of these natural arches, you get to enjoy a scenic hike. Here are just five of the best hikes in New Mexico that will take you to stunning natural arches.

1. Los Alamos Arch (Los Alamos)
Los Alamos, NM 87544, USA
Laura Miller/AllTrails
Reach this arch via Mitchell Trail in Los Alamos. The trailhead is off Arizona Street, in a residential neighborhood. The hike can be tough and finding the arch takes some looking. Consult a local trail guide for exact instructions.
2. Cox Canyon Arch (Aztec)
Aztec, NM, USA
AztecTourism/TripAdvisor
Some of you may know this arch as Anasazi Arch. It's reachable via a short hike, but expect to do a bit of scrambling (and mud after rain). Find this arch off County Road 2300, just south of the New Mexico-Colorado state line.

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3. La Ventana Arch (Grants)
El Malpais, New Mexico 87020, USA
SJRODDICK/TripAdvisor
La Ventana Arch is one of New Mexico's most popular arches and one of the best hikes in New Mexico. An easy half-mile out-and-back hike will get you there. Start at the parking lot near the El Malpais ranger station off State Highway 117 and look for the turnoff to Sandstone Bluff Road. You can learn more about this scenic hike in New Mexico in this article.
4. Dona Ana Arch (Las Cruces)
Las Cruces, NM, USA
Joseph Yaroch/Flickr
Like many arches, this feature has many names including Needle's Eye, Circle Rock, and Ring Rock. A hike in the Dona Ana Mountains will get you there. See this YouTube video for cool views and directions.
5. Bisiti Arch (Near Farmington)
Bisti Badlands, New Mexico 87499, USA
By Ekotyk /Wikimedia Commons
Also known as Dragon's Head Arch, this stunning arch can be found among the spires and oddly-formed hoodoos in the Bisti Badlands. Look for the arch just southwest of a feature called the Siltstone Wall.

Enjoy your hikes and the arches, but please remember that New Mexico’s landscape treasures are fragile and irreplaceable. Treat the arches and surrounding areas with respect so others can enjoy them too.

With all of the arches across the state, we know you may have seen a few. Which ones are your favorites? What do you think are the best hikes in New Mexico? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

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Best hikes in New Mexico

Courtnie Erickson | March 18, 2022

What are some scenic hikes in New Mexico?

One of the best ways to enjoy the Land of Enchantment is on a hike. There are hundreds of scenic hikes in New Mexico that are just waiting to be explored. One of our favorites is the Williams Lake Trail near Taos. This hiking trail is just under four miles and features a few challenging areas. However, you will see some of New Mexico’s gorgeous scenery as you climb and it’s absolutely heavenly.

For another scenic hike in New Mexico, head to Capulin Volcano National Monument. Here, you will find the Crater Rim Trail. This is a short trail and is only one mile long, but it’s quite unique. In fact, this loop trail will take you along the rim of a volcano. While the trail is paved, it isn’t considered an easy hike in New Mexico because there are some fairly steep inclines you will have to conquer. However, just take your time and enjoy the view.

If you are searching for kid-friendly hikes around New Mexico, Sitting Bull Falls Trail in the Lincoln National Forest is an excellent option. This trail is less than one mile and takes you to the popular and gorgeous Sitting Bull Falls. Just be aware this easy trail is quite popular so you’ll want to keep an eye out and be respectful of other hikers you may pass.

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